ARSONISTS destroyed a dozen cars in a major fire at a vehicle storage yard.

Four fire crews spent an hour battling the blaze at car towing firm Boyton Cross in Hythe Station Road, Colchester.

When they had extinguished the fire, it was established 12 vehicles had been damaged by the flames.

Two crews from Colchester, and others from Manningtree and Wivenhoe were called to the scene shortly before 3am yesterday.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said an investigation would now take place to find out what happened.

A spokesman said: “Fire crews tackled the fire and managed to extinguish it by 4am.

“An investigation will take place to establish the cause of the fire.”

Police believe the fire was started deliberately.

It is understood the Boyton Cross in Colchester is used by Essex Police for vehicle recovery operations.

Transaction information posted on the website of police, fire and crime commissioner for Essex Roger Hirst showed the force had spent close to £3,000 with the company between January and March.

It is not known whether any of the cars damaged in the blaze were related in any way to Essex Police.

No-one from the firm was available for comment yesterday.

Neighbours said they had seen fire engines arriving at the industrial area in the early hours of the morning and had heard noises from the yard but were not aware of what had happened.

Anyone with any information about how the fire started should call Colchester CID on 101 quoting reference 157 of May 28.

Police also want to view dash cam footage from any motorists who were driving on Greenstead Road at roughly 2.30am.

Information can also be given to charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Details can also be given on their website at crimestoppers-uk.org.